Drive Safe or Pay Big: Bengaluru Traffic Fines Increased by 10X
Bengaluru Implements Hefty Traffic Penalties to Curb Violations
Bengaluru: If you value your pocket, it’s time to drive responsibly. Effective March 1, 2025, Bengaluru’s traffic violators will face fines up to 10 times higher as authorities tighten the noose on reckless driving. The revised penalties, in line with stricter national road safety measures, aim to reduce accidents, enforce discipline, and promote responsible driving in the city notorious for its traffic congestion.
From drunken driving and helmetless riding to mobile phone usage behind the wheel, Bengaluru motorists will now have to shell out thousands for violations. Repeat offenders may even face imprisonment and suspension of their driving licences. The new rules leave no room for leniency, with stringent fines that could set violators back by as much as Rs 25,000!
Key Offences and Revised Fines
| Offence | Old Fine | New Fine & Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| Drunken Driving | Rs 1,000 – Rs 1,500 | Rs 10,000 and/or 6 months in prison |
| Repeat Drunken Driving | – | Rs 15,000 and/or 2 years in prison |
| Riding Without a Helmet | Rs 100 | Rs 1,000 + Licence suspension for 3 months |
| Driving Without Fastening Seat Belt | Rs 100 | Rs 1,000 |
| Using Mobile Phone While Driving | Rs 500 | Rs 5,000 |
| Driving Without a Valid Licence | Rs 500 | Rs 5,000 |
| Triple Riding on a Two-Wheeler | Rs 100 | Rs 1,000 |
| Driving Without Insurance | Rs 200 – Rs 400 | Rs 2,000 and/or 3 months in prison, community service |
| Repeat Offence (Driving Without Insurance) | – | Rs 4,000 |
| Driving Without a Valid Pollution Certificate | Rs 1,000 | Rs 10,000 and/or up to 6 months in prison + community service |
| Dangerous Driving | Rs 500 | Rs 5,000 |
| Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles | Rs 1,000 | Rs 10,000 |
| Racing or Speeding on Public Roads | Rs 500 | Rs 5,000 |
| Overloading | Rs 2,000 | Rs 20,000 |
| Signal Jumping | Rs 500 | Rs 5,000 |
| Offences by Juveniles (Under 18) | Rs 2,500 | Rs 25,000 + 3 years in prison + cancellation of vehicle registration for 1 year + ineligibility for driving licence until 25 years of age |
Authorities Speak: Safety Over Leniency
Traffic police officials have stated that these penalties are meant to serve as a strong deterrent against habitual traffic violations. A senior Bengaluru traffic officer commented:
“These fines are not just about revenue generation. We aim to instill a sense of responsibility among drivers. Reckless driving endangers lives, and Bengaluru’s accident rate is alarming. The new rules will help curb these violations.”
Public Reactions: Relief or Outrage?
While some citizens support the move, others have expressed concerns over the steep fines. Suresh R., a daily commuter, said:
“I agree that rules should be followed, but a Rs 10,000 fine for not having a pollution certificate is too harsh. The government should ensure proper awareness before implementing such heavy penalties.”
On the other hand, road safety activists welcome the decision. Anjali M., a campaigner for safer roads, said:
“Bengaluru’s traffic discipline is abysmal. These penalties are necessary to ensure people think twice before breaking the rules.”
Conclusion: Drive Safe, Save Money
The new traffic fines signal zero tolerance for violations. The authorities have urged Bengaluru’s citizens to follow traffic laws diligently to avoid hefty penalties and ensure safer roads for all. With strict enforcement and public cooperation, the city aims to drastically reduce traffic accidents and fatalities.
Bottom line? Buckle up, wear helmets, avoid speeding, and respect the rules—or be ready to pay the price.
This will benefit police for collecting more money, because an ordinary person can’t pay so much money instead they’ll pay small amount to the police person without bill. It is indirectly promoting corruption. Poor people suffer in the name of traffic rules.